Afghan Hound vs Dalmatian

Hound · Large vs Non-Sporting · Medium

Quick take
  • Dalmatian is the larger breed at 45–70 lbs (males) vs 60 lbs for the Afghan Hound.
  • The Afghan Hound typically lives longer (12–18 years).
  • The Dalmatian has higher daily energy needs.
  • The Afghan Hound sheds less.
  • The Dalmatian is generally more trainable.

Side-by-side traits

TraitAfghan HoundDalmatian
Group
HoundNon-Sporting
Size
LargeMedium
Origin
AfghanistanCroatia
Height (male)
27"19–24"
Height (female)
25"19–24"
Weight (male)
60 lbs45–70 lbs
Weight (female)
50 lbs45–70 lbs
Lifespan
Average expected lifespan.
12–18 years11–13 years
Energy level
Daily activity needs.
High (4/5)Very High (5/5)
Trainability
How quickly the breed learns commands.
Low (2/5)High (4/5)
Intelligence
Problem-solving ability.
Moderate (3/5)High (4/5)
Exercise needs
Daily physical activity required.
High (4/5)Very High (5/5)
Shedding
Lower = less hair around your home.
Low (2/5)High (4/5)
Grooming effort
Brushing, bathing, professional grooming.
Very High (5/5)Low (2/5)
Drooling
Lower = drier face and furniture.
Very Low (1/5)Very Low (1/5)
Barking
How vocal the breed is.
Low (2/5)Low (2/5)
Good with kids
Moderate (3/5)High (4/5)
Good with other dogs
Moderate (3/5)High (4/5)
Good with strangers
Low (2/5)Moderate (3/5)
Protectiveness
Watchdog tendencies.
Moderate (3/5)Moderate (3/5)
Adaptability
Apartment / new environment tolerance.
Moderate (3/5)Moderate (3/5)
Coat length
longshort
Hypoallergenic
Lower-shedding, less dander.
YesNo
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About the Afghan Hound

The Afghan Hound is an aloof, dignified, ancient sighthound — the supermodel of the dog world with a flowing silken coat. Originally from Afghanistan, this large hound breed typically weighs 60 lbs and lives 12–18 years. Breeders describe them as aloof, dignified, independent.

About the Dalmatian

The Dalmatian is a dignified, smart, outgoing spotted coach dog — 101 Dalmatians, original carriage and firehouse dog. Originally from Croatia, this medium non-sporting breed typically weighs 45–70 lbs and lives 11–13 years. Breeders describe them as dignified, smart, outgoing.

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Afghan Hound health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Hip dysplasia
  • Cataracts
  • Hypothyroidism

Dalmatian health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Deafness
  • Urinary stones
  • Hip dysplasia
  • Skin allergies